Media storage disk box

ABSTRACT

A media storage disk box for containing a media storage disk, or optical disc, includes a unitary plastic body having a first panel, a second panel, and a hinge panel, the hinge panel intermediate of the first panel and the second panel, the first panel and the second panel movable, about the hinge panel, between an open position and a closed position; a first metal cover affixed to the first panel, the first metal cover having a perimeter rim and at least one perimeter wall section; and a second metal cover affixed to the second panel, the second metal cover having a perimeter rim and at least one perimeter wall section. According to one embodiment, the perimeter rim of the first metal cover is raised a predetermined distance above a central area of the first metal cover, and the perimeter rim of the second metal cover is raised a predetermined distance above a central area of the second metal cover. According to another embodiment, the media storage disk box may include graphics disposed one or more of the metal covers.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/704,395, filed Nov. 6, 2003, titled “Media Storage Disk Box,” published as U.S. Publication No. 2004/0173481, the entire contents of which is herein incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a media storage disk box and more particularly a media storage disk box including metal panels.

BACKGROUND

A box or case to retain a CD or DVD is the common form by which such goods are normally sold. A box has the ability to carry product information and advertising while simultaneously providing protection to the disk. In one form, the box consists of a base panel and a cover panel which are movable relative to each other. The configuration is of a kind to provide a wallet like enclosure within which a disk can be stored. Such a box or case will also normally include a mounting region with which a disk can be mounted. The movement of the base and cover panels can be such as to provide an enclosure to securely locate the disk within the enclosure yet allow for the cover to move relative to the base and allow for access to be gained to the enclosure to allow for the removal of the disk from the box. In the most common form, the box itself does not present the product branding, advertising and product information. Normally a paper sleeve is engaged with the box, the paper sleeve providing such indicia. Accordingly the boxes which are manufactured to carry the disks are normally of a generic kind and the boxes are customised by the engagement of a paper sleeve carrying the graphics and indicia corresponding to the disk which is to be retained within the box. Besides appropriate selection of the indicia or graphics provided by a paper sleeve, no other ways of distinguishing the box from other boxes is able to be achieved. The paper sleeve is normally that portion which is the most obvious means of drawing attention to the box but beyond the selection of colors and graphic styles, no other differentiating features are conveniently incorporated with known boxes. In a consumer market to which DVDs and CDs are directed, it is important to allow for distinguishing features to be provided by the box to attract a consumer and encourage them to purchase that particular product. There has accordingly been a need to provide different forms of visual appeal for DVD or CD to be boxed for such purposes.

Accordingly, the present invention addresses the existing and above-mention shortcomings relating to media storage disk boxes.

SUMMARY

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a media storage disk box is disclosed. The media storage disk box includes a unitary plastic body having a first panel, a second panel, and a hinge panel, the hinge panel intermediate of the first panel and the second panel, the first panel and the second panel movable, about the hinge panel, between an open position and a closed position; a first metal cover affixed to the first panel, the first metal cover having a perimeter rim and at least one perimeter wall section; and a second metal cover affixed to the second panel, the second metal cover having a perimeter rim and at least one perimeter wall section.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, a media storage disk box is disclosed. The media storage disk box includes a unitary plastic body having a first panel, a second panel, and a hinge panel, the hinge panel intermediate of the first panel and the second panel, the first panel and the second panel movable, about the hinge panel, between an open position and a closed position; a first metal cover affixed to the first panel, the first metal cover having a perimeter rim around a top surface of the first metal cover, the perimeter rim extending a predetermined distance above a central area of the first metal cover; a second metal cover affixed to the second panel, the second metal cover having a perimeter rim around a top surface of the second metal cover, the perimeter rim extending a predetermined distance above a central area of the first metal cover; and graphics disposed on at least part of the central area of at least one of the first and second metal covers.

According to another embodiment, the first metal cover may further include at least one perimeter wall section, the at least one perimeter wall section of the first metal cover surrounding at least a substantial part of a perimeter of the first panel, and the second metal cover further includes at least one perimeter wall section, the at least one perimeter wall section of the second metal cover surrounding at least a substantial part of a perimeter of the second panel.

According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, a media storage disk box is disclosed. The media storage disk box includes a unitary plastic body having a first panel, a second panel, and a hinge panel, the hinge panel intermediate of the first panel and the second panel, the first panel and the second panel movable, about the hinge panel, between an open position and a closed position; a first metal cover affixed to the first panel, the first metal cover having a perimeter rim and at least one perimeter wall section, the perimeter rim of the first metal cover extending a predetermined distance above a central area of the first metal cover, and the at least one perimeter wall section of the first metal cover surrounding at least a substantial part of a perimeter of the first panel; a second metal cover affixed to the second panel, the second metal cover having a perimeter rim and at least one perimeter wall section, the perimeter rim of the second metal cover extending a predetermined distance above a central area of the second metal cover, the at least one perimeter wall section of the second metal cover surrounding at least a substantial part of a perimeter of the second panel; a third metal cover affixed to the hinge panel; and graphics disposed on at least one of the first, second, and third metal covers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a plan view of a media storage disk box showing the enclosure side of the two panels of the box;

FIG. 2A is a view of the media storage disk box as per FIG. 1 but wherein the sheet metal tabs of the spine panel have been folded over to be captured with the spine.

FIG. 2B is a side view of the box of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 3 is an end view of the box of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 4 is a sectional view through section AA of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 5 is a sectional view through section BB of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 6 is a sectional view through section CC of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 7 is a sectional view through section DD of FIG. 2A;

FIG. 8 is a side view of the box of FIG. 1 where the box is in a closed condition;

FIG. 9 is a close up sectional view of the mounting region of a panel of the box of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is an enlarged drawing of FIG. 2B;

FIG. 11 is an internal end view of a minor side of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 14B;

FIG. 12 is a sectional view of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 14B taken midway along the major length of the sheet metal cover;

FIG. 13A is a sectional view of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 13B taken midway along the major length of the sheet metal cover;

FIG. 13B is a plan view of the interior side of a second sheet metal cover;

FIG. 14A is an internal end view of a minor side of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 13B;

FIG. 14B is a plan view of the interior side of a first sheet metal cover;

FIG. 15 is a plan view of the interior side of the sheet metal spine cover; FIG. 16 is an interior end view of the cover shown in FIG. 13B;

FIG. 17 is an interior end view of the cover shown in FIG. 14B;

FIG. 18 is a side view of FIG. 15;

FIG. 19 is an enlarged view of FIG. 15;

FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of region H of FIG. 13B;

FIG. 21 is a close up view of region B of FIG. 11;

FIG. 22 is a close up view of region C of FIG. 11;

FIG. 23 is a close up view of region D of FIG. 12;

FIG. 24 is a close up view of region E of FIG. 12;

FIG. 25 is a plan view of the exterior side of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 13B, including graphics;

FIG. 26 is a plan view of the exterior side of the sheet metal spine cover shown in FIG. 15, including graphic text;

FIG. 27 is a plan view of the exterior side of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 14B, including graphics;

FIG. 28A is a side sectional view of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 27 taken along line

FIG. 28B is an enlarged view of region L identified in FIG. 28A; and

FIG. 29 is a side sectional view of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 27 taken along line F.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of example embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to represent the only embodiments in which the present invention can be practiced. The embodiments described throughout this description are intended to serve as an example or illustration of the present invention and should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Any number of the described embodiments may be incorporated in any desired combination. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without certain specific details. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be used as structural and other changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

With reference to FIG. 1, the media storage disk box may generally be defined by a unitarily formed plastic body 1 which consists of first panel 2 and a second panel 3. The media storage disk box may be referred to as “the box” or “the disk box” throughout the description. A media storage disk may be any type of disk used for media storage. For example, one type of media storage disk is an optical disc, such as, for example, compact disc (CD) formats, digital versatile disc (DVD) formats, and video compact disc (VCD) formats, conventionally used to store a plurality of different media and multimedia. The first and second panels 2, 3 are generally planar panels however relief details are or can be provided to the panels. The first and second panels may be of a complimentary size and shape such that when they are in an overlapping condition (a box “closed condition” or “closed position”) the perimeter of the first and second panels 2, 3 are commensurate with each other. The first and second panels 2, 3 are connected to each other via a hinge 4. The hinge 4 is, for example, a hinge panel which is integrally formed with the first and second panels 2, 3 and positioned intermediate of the first and second panels 2, 3. The hinge 4 may define axes of rotation XX and YY which allow for each of the first and second panels 2, 3 to move relative to the hinge panel 4 and relative to each other. In one embodiment, with reference to FIG. 1, the unitary plastic body 1 provides the two hinges intermediate of the hinge panel 4 and a respective first and second panel 2, 3. The axes of rotation XX and YY are provided as a consequence of a change in the wall thickness of the unitary plastic body 1. Such a change in the wall thickness, where the thickness is reduced, provides a region about which the components of the unitary plastic body can rotate relative to each other. In another embodiment of the present invention, the hinge 4 may define one axis of rotation being an axis of rotation to allow for mutual rotation of the first and second panels 2, 3 relative to each other. The hinge itself may in such a configuration form part of the first and second panels of the unitary plastic body 1. However, in one of the embodiments, the hinge 4 is a separate panel to the first and second panels 2, 3 and as such provides a spine or at least part of a spine to the box. The first and second panels 2, 3 are each independently movable relative to the spine provided by the hinge according to the configuration shown in FIG. 1.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second panels 2, 3 are in a plan shape of a quadrilateral perimeter. As can be seen in FIG. 1, the box is in a substantial part defined by the first and second panels which are of a rectangular perimeter shape. The spine is provided intermediate of the first and second panels juxtaposed to two major sides of the rectangular form of each of the panels 2, 3. However, in another embodiment, the spine may be provided along two of the minor sides of the rectangular perimeter form of each of the panels 2, 3. The relationship of the two panels 2, 3 is such that by rotation about the pivot axis or axes XX, YY, the perimeter regions of each of the two panels 2, 3 become engaged with each other to define, within the perimeter and within the major surfaces of the panels 2, 3, an enclosure. With reference to FIG. 8, the box is shown in a closed condition that forms such an enclosure.

The first panel 2 has provided on the enclosure facing side, or interior side, thereof a disk mounting region 7. The disk mounting region 7 may include disk peripheral relief 8 and also include a mounting means 9 which is, for example, a rosette style mounting to engage with the central aperture of a disk in a manner to be releasable therefrom. The enclosure side of the second panel 3 may include relief details such as clips 10 which may be provided for the purposes of releasably affixing to the enclosure side surface of the second panel, an information booklet.

Provided to at least one of the first and second panels 2, 3, and to the exterior side, or non-enclosure facing side, thereof, is a sheet metal cover 12. The sheet metal cover 12 is preferably co-extensive with the non-enclosure facing side of the plastic panel. The sheet metal cover may be, as shown in FIG. 14B, also of a rectangular form and be affixed to one of the plastic panels 2, 3. In one embodiment, and that illustrated in FIG. 8, both plastic panels 2, 3 have a sheet metal cover engaged to the non-enclosure facing side of the plastic panel. The sheet metal cover is affixed with the plastic panel in a manner to be permanently retained therewith. The term “permanently” is used to describe characteristic of the sheet metal covers in that, while possible removed from the plastic panels, they are not generally or regularly removed from the plastic panel and such removal requires a certain degree of applied force. In the illustrated embodiment, the sheet metal cover also locates over at least a substantial part of the perimeter of each of the plastic panels 2, 3. The sheet metal cover is preferably substantially planar as far as its location adjacent the major surface of the plastic panel 2 or 3, but includes perimeter upstanding wall sections 13 which locate about corresponding upstanding walls 15 of the perimeter of the plastic panel 2, 3. As such, the perimeter upstanding wall sections 13 of the sheet metal covers enclose about a substantial part of the exterior surfaces of each of the plastic panels 2, 3. Upstanding walls 15 are, however, in the illustrated embodiment, not provided on the plastic panels 2, 3 at the region where the plastic panels are juxtaposed with the spine or hinge 4. As a consequence and likewise, in the illustrated embodiment, no upstanding perimeter wall sections 13 of the sheet metal panels are provided in regions corresponding to the region juxtaposed to the spine regions of the plastic panels. In the illustrated embodiment, the sheet metal panels are engaged and affixed to a respective plastic panel 2, 3 by the upstanding wall sections 13 of the sheet metal panels. With reference to FIG. 14B, the upstanding peripheral wall sections 13 of a sheet metal panel extend, at least in part, about the perimeter of the sheet metal panel at each of the four sides thereof. As can be seen in FIG. 14B, such peripheral upstanding wall sections 13 are not provided to the sheet metal panel at region 18, being the region corresponding to where the sheet metal cover is provided adjacent the spine 4. However, short upstanding wall sections are provided at the end regions 19 on the side of the sheet metal panel that is adjacent the spine 4. As can be seen in FIG. 2A, the spine 4 is not of a length equal to the major side length of the rectangular shaped plastic panels 2, 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the spine 4 is of a length shorter than the major sides of the panel such as to allow for the end regions 19 of such a major side to not interfere with the spine 4.

Each of the sheet metal covers, at its upstanding peripheral wall, includes a flange downturn 20. The flange downturn is an extension from the upstanding peripheral wall 13 which is directed both inwardly and downwardly back towards the major panel of the metal cover 12. As a result, a radiused surface 21 is presented defining the distal edge of the upstanding wall 13. Such a downturn is provided for both providing a safe and non-dangerous finish to the sheet metal panel but also to provide a clipping feature to allow for the sheet metal cover to clip with a respective plastic panel. With reference to FIG. 10, corresponding clipping relief 22 is provided to the exterior side of the upstanding wall 15 of the first panel 2. Such clipping relief 22 presents a surface with which the downturn 20 can engage. In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of such clipping relief features 22 are provided about the perimeter of the upstanding wall 15 of the first panel 2 and also, for example, from the second panel 3. Adhesive may, additionally or alternatively, be used.

As can be seen with reference to FIG. 10, such clipping relief 22 is provided below the free edge 26 of the upstanding walls 15 of the first panel 2. With reference to FIG. 8, the complimentary free edges 26 and 27 of the first and second panels 2, 3 are capable of engaging with each other when the box is in the closed condition. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, there is no contact that occurs between the sheet metal covers of the first and second panels when the box is in the closed condition and it is the free edges of the upstanding walls 15 of the plastic panels 2, 3 that engage with each other. Provided to the plastic covers may be detailing 28 and 29 (see FIG. 5) provided for the purposes of allowing for the box in the closed condition to be locked, or secured, in the closed condition. The closure features 28 and 29 are preferably locking, or securing, components which interact with each other to hold the box in the closed condition yet allow for the box to be opened when desired. A tongue and groove-like arrangement for the closure features 28 and 29 as, for example, shown in FIG. 5 may be utilised. A handled or handle region 30 and 31 may be provided to each of the first and second plastic panels 2, 3. Such a handle region 30, 31 is provided to allow for the box to be grasped by a person and to allow for the first and second panels to be moved from the closed condition to the open condition. The handled region may provide surface indents within which fingers can be positioned to allow for the box to be opened.

In the embodiment where a separate spine panel 4 is provided, a sheet metal spine cover 35 may be located and affixed to the spine panel 4. With reference to FIGS. 15, 18 and 19, such a sheet metal spine cover 35 is preferably of a length to cover the entire length, or substantially the entire length, of the spine panel 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the width of the sheet metal spine cover 35 is such that a substantial portion of the spine panel is covered. The sheet metal spine cover 35 is engaged with the spine 4 to the non-enclosure facing, or exterior, side thereof. Clipping tabs 36 are provided at each end of the sheet metal spine cover 35 and such tabs can be folded to locate the sheet metal spine cover to the spine 4. With reference to FIG. 1, the tabs 36 are shown in an unfolded state. The enclosure facing, or interior, side of the spine may include regions 38 which provide relief into which the tab 36 can be folded. Such relief may be a surface indent to the interior facing surface of the spine such that, when the tab is folded over, it is located within the relief or receptacle region defined on the interior surface of the spine 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the tabs 36 do not protrude out from such a receptacle region 38. As a consequence, the possibility of a snagging or catching of the tab 36 with a foreign body can be avoided.

Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 10, the plastic panel may also include, presented beyond the free edge 26 and/or 27 of at least the first panel 2 and possibly also the second panel 3, upstands 40. The upstands 40 are provided, to locate to the interior side of the upstanding wall 15 of the other panel and to locate against the inwardly directed surface of such upstanding wall 15 of the other panel, to thereby provide resistance to the sliding movement of the two panels relative to each other. While resistance to such sliding movement is provided as a result of the integral formation of the two panels incorporating the hinge, because the plastic material is of a flexible nature, the upstands 40, in a direction parallel to the substantially planar configuration of the box in its closed condition, will resist the sliding movement. In one embodiment of the invention, it is only one of the panels 2, 3 which include such upstands and these may be provided in a form where there are a plurality of such upstands provided about the perimeter of the first or second panels 2, 3, or in another embodiment, the upstands may be a continuous or semi-continuous edge or lip presented from the free edge 26 of the panel 2 or the free edge 27 of the panel 3.

The metal covers, in one embodiment, are made form a metal which can provide high gloss characteristics. The metal covers may be printed with a printing ink to provide graphics and product information to the exterior side of the box. The fact that such printing inks are provided to the exterior of the metal covers can allow for the high gloss character to be taken advantage of. A metallic finish can be obtained. Furthermore, the sheet metal may, during its forming procedure, have provided regions of embossing to the major panel regions thereof. The embossing can provide further enhancement especially where such is provided to define an outline enhancement to graphics subsequently printed there on.

Referring now to particular drawings, FIG. 2B is a side view of the box of FIG. 2A from which a handle region of one of the panels may be seen more clearly. FIG. 3 is an end view of the box of FIG. 2A. FIGS. 4, 5, 6, and 7 provide sectional views taken at various cross-sections AA, BB, CC, and DD, respectively. Each sectional view shows additional detail regarding the first and second panels such as, for example, how the rosette style mounting may be seen in FIG. 4. FIG. 9 is a close up sectional view of the mounting region of a panel of the box shown in FIG. 1, this view providing additional detail of the rosette style mounting that is also visible in FIG. 4.

Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 14A, FIG. 11 is an internal end view of one of the minor sides of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 14B, and FIG. 14A is an internal, sectional end view of one of the minor sides of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 13B. FIGS. 11 and 14A illustrate some of the similarities between the first sheet metal cover, shown in FIG. 14B, and the second sheet metal cover, shown in FIG. 13B.

Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13A, FIG. 12 is a sectional view of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 14B taken approximately midway along the major length of the sheet metal cover, and FIG. 13A is a sectional view of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 13B taken approximately midway along the major length of the sheet metal cover. Again, these figures illustrate some of the similarities between the first sheet metal cover, shown in FIG. 14B, and the second sheet metal cover, shown in FIG. 13B.

FIG. 13B is a plan view of the interior side of the second sheet metal cover. FIG. 13B is shown being substantially similar to the first sheet metal cover, the plan view of the interior side of the first sheet metal cover being shown in FIG. 14B, which has been described above. FIG. 16 is an interior end view of the cover shown in FIG. 13B, and FIG. 17 is an interior end view of the cover shown in FIG. 14B. FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate some of the similarities between the first and second sheet metal covers. FIGS. 16 and 17 also show an indented portion in each of the first and second sheet metal covers, each of the indented areas configured for receiving the handle region of the first and second plastic panels, respectively.

FIGS. 20-24 are enlarged or close-up views of a plurality of regions of the sheet metal covers. FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of region H of FIG. 13B, where a part of the free edge of the perimeter upstanding wall section ends at the spine region of the sheet metal cover. FIG. 21 is a close-up view of region B of FIG. 11. FIG. 22 is a close-up view of region C of FIG. 11. FIG. 23 is a close-up view of region D of FIG. 12. FIG. 24 is a close-up view of region E of FIG. 12. As FIGS. 11 and 12 are described above, it is clear that each of the close-up views in FIGS. 21-24 show details of the sheet metal cover and the various folds and/or downturns that have been described above.

Referring now to FIG. 25, a plan view of the exterior side of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 13B, including graphics, is shown. The sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 25 is referred to as the second sheet metal cover 80 because, in one embodiment, it is affixed to the second panel 3, shown in FIG. 1 and other figures, together forming a front cover of the media storage disk box. The area visible in FIG. 25 is referred to herein as a top surface of the second sheet metal cover 80, the top surface having a plurality of edges 81 where the one or more perimeter wall sections join with the top surface of the second sheet metal cover 80. The second sheet metal cover 80 includes a central area 82 and a perimeter rim 84. The second sheet metal cover 80 also includes a hinge side 83 that, when coupled or affixed to the second plastic panel 3, is proximate to the hinge 4 of the box. The central area 82 is configured for receiving printing and/or embossing, as described above, or any other type of graphic adornment applied to the exterior of the sheet metal cover using any suitable method of application. A combination of graphics may be applied. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the central image of an aircraft is shown embossed on the cover, slightly raised from the surrounding central area of the sheet metal cover, while text or other images may be non-embossed printing, applied substantially flush with the surrounding central area 82 of the second sheet metal cover 80. The perimeter rim 84 is a raised rim that extends beyond and above the surface of the central area 82 of the second sheet metal cover 80, or the central area 82 may be seen as being recessed below the level of the perimeter rim 84.

In one embodiment, the perimeter rim 84 runs along the entire perimeter, or substantially the entire perimeter, of the top surface of the second sheet metal cover 80. However, it is not necessary that the perimeter rim 84 run along the entire perimeter. For example, the perimeter rim 84 could be raised in only certain sections of the perimeter, such as the top and bottom, or the sides, or any combination of the top and sides, or in a plurality of raised sections along the perimeter of the second sheet metal cover 80.

Due to the nature of sheet metal material shown in the illustrated embodiments, the perimeter rim 84 is also visible when looking at the interior side of the second sheet metal cover 80, such as is shown in FIG. 13B. However, when looking at the interior view of the sheet metal cover, the perimeter rim 84 would be recessed relative to the surrounding central area 82 of the second sheet metal cover 80, extending in a direction effectively away from the viewer of the figure, and when looking at the exterior view of the second sheet metal cover 80, the perimeter rim 84 would be raised or protruding relative to the surrounding central area 82 of the second sheet metal cover 80, in a direction effectively toward the viewer of the figure.

In one embodiment, the perimeter rim 84 strengthens the second sheet metal cover 80, or serves to make the second sheet metal cover 80 more resilient, or adds support to the structure of the second sheet metal cover 80. Such properties may be further improved by a perimeter ledge 86 and a perimeter surface 88, which may be included as parts of the perimeter rim 84. The perimeter ledge 86 runs along the inner perimeter of the perimeter rim 84 and the perimeter surface 88, radially inward from the plurality of edges 81 of top surface of the second sheet metal cover 80. The perimeter ledge 86 also generally surrounds the central area 82 of the second sheet metal cover 80. In one embodiment, the perimeter surface 88 has a width and may be substantially flat, lying in a plane that is generally parallel with the central area 82 of the second sheet metal cover 80. In one embodiment, the width is generally uniform about substantially the entire perimeter, with slight variation in width occurring at corner sections of the perimeter rim 84. The perimeter surface 88 joins the perimeter wall (not shown in FIG. 25) forming a bend or an edge in the sheet metal material used to form the second sheet metal cover 80. Also, the perimeter ledge 86 is a second bend or a second edge in the sheet metal material, or if the perimeter ledge 86 is of sufficient size, the perimeter ledge 86, in joining with the perimeter surface 88 and the central area 82, will for two additional bends or edges in the sheet metal materials. Therefore, the perimeter ledge 86 is effectively an edge or bend formed where the perimeter surface 88 joins with the central area 82 of the second sheet metal cover. It is the addition of these bends or edges, formed by the presence of the perimeter rim 84 that may, at least partially, provide added strength to the second sheet metal cover 80.

The perimeter ledge 86 and perimeter surface 88 are shown more clearly in FIGS. 28A, 28B and 29, which are side sectional views of a first sheet metal cover 100 shown in FIG. 27. While two separate metal covers are shown in the drawings, the second sheet metal cover 80 and the first sheet metal cover 100 are substantially identical in construction such that any structural or other general description of one sheet metal cover applies similarly to the other. For illustration purposes, FIG. 25 shows the second sheet metal cover 80 as a front cover of the media storage disk box and FIG. 27 shows the first metal cover 100 as a back cover of the media storage disk box. However, except for the purposes of having any graphics in a proper, visually appealing orientation, the second metal cover 80 and first metal cover 100 are generally interchangeable.

In another embodiment, the perimeter rim 84 serves to protect the central area 82 of the second sheet metal cover 80. When the media storage disk box is longitudinally stacked or packed with other media storage disk boxes (not shown), i.e. such that the top surface, or central area, of a front cover of a first disk box is located adjacent to the top surface, or central area, of a back cover of a second disk box, the perimeter rim of the first disk box abuts the perimeter rim of the second disk box. Since the perimeter rims are generally of equivalent size and shape, contact between storage boxes may be generally limited to contact between perimeter rims of the first and second disk boxes. In one embodiment, a predetermined amount of space may be present between the central areas of the lower and upper storage boxes such that the central areas do not contact each other. In another embodiment, there may be contact between the central areas of the first and second storage boxes, however the amount of contact and the amount of force on the central areas may be reduced by the contact between the perimeter rims. In another embodiment, it is not necessary that both the front cover and back cover include a perimeter rim. Instead, only the front cover, or only the back cover, may include the perimeter rim, and protection of the central area of the sheet metal covers may still be achieved. In another embodiment, the perimeter surface need not be substantially flat. Instead, the perimeter surface may, for example, have a particular surface design, such as steps, raised dots, raised ridges, other raised shapes or lines, and the like. Furthermore, the perimeter surface 88 of the front cover may be complimentary to the perimeter surface 108 of the back cover such that the surface features either abut each other or engage each other to join or interlock when located adjacent to each other.

In yet another embodiment, the perimeter rim 84 serves as a frame for the central area 82 and generally improves and increases the visual appeal of the product to the consumer or purchaser of the product. In this embodiment, the graphics are located in the central area 82 of the second sheet metal cover 80 and the perimeter rim 84 frames the centrally located graphics. Such a configuration may provide a visual element to capture the attention and interest of the consumer. However, graphics, such as printing and embossing, are not limited to the central area 82, and graphics, if desired, may also be applied to the perimeter rim 84 area of the second sheet metal cover 80.

FIG. 26 is a plan view of the exterior side of the sheet metal spine cover 90 shown in FIG. 15, including graphic text. The sheet metal spine cover 90 includes clipping tabs 92 for attachment to the plastic spine panel (not shown). However, other methods of attaching the sheet metal spine cover 90, such as an adhesive, or clips, grooves, snaps, and the like, may also be used. The illustrated embodiment is a generally flat piece of sheet metal that is sufficiently malleable to allow the folding of the clipping tabs for attachment to the plastic spine panel. However, the sheet metal spine cover may also have bends, ridges, embossment, or other visual adornment as desired.

FIG. 27 is a plan view of the exterior side of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 14B, including graphics. The sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 27 is referred to as the first sheet metal cover 80 because, in one embodiment, it is affixed to the first panel 2, shown in FIG. 1 and other figures, together forming a back cover of the media storage disk box. The area visible in FIG. 27 is referred to herein as a top surface of the first sheet metal cover 100, the top surface having a plurality of edges 101 where the one or more perimeter wall sections join with the top surface of the first sheet metal cover 100. The first sheet metal cover 100 includes a central area 102 and a perimeter rim 104. The first sheet metal cover 100 also includes a hinge side 103 that, when coupled or affixed to the first plastic panel 2, is proximate to the hinge 4 of the box. The perimeter rim 104 includes a perimeter ledge 106 and a perimeter surface 108. The central area 102 may include graphics, which, in the example shown in the figure, is a printed image of an aircraft and outlying designs. The designs are shown printed on the central area 102, extending also over the perimeter ledge 106 and the perimeter surface 108 of the perimeter rim 104.

FIG. 28A is a side sectional view of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 27 taken along line E. The central area 102 and the perimeter rim 104 can be seen. The perimeter rim 104 protrudes, or extends, above or beyond the central area 102 of the first sheet metal cover. Dashed lines GH, and I are used to illustrate the difference in height between the central area 102 and the perimeter rim 104. Line G indicates the horizontal level of a lower edge 110 of the perimeter wall 112. Line H indicates the horizontal level of the perimeter rim 104. More specifically, line H indicates the uppermost part of the perimeter rim 104 since, while the perimeter rim 104 illustrated includes a substantially flat perimeter surface 108, the perimeter surface could be arched or curved or have any desired shape. Line I indicates the horizontal level of the central area 102 of the sheet metal cover 100. Referring to these dashed lines, distance J is the distance between line G and line H, which is the distance between the horizontal level of the lower edge 110 and the horizontal level of the perimeter rim 104. Distance K is the distance between line G and line I, which is the distance between the horizontal level of the lower edge 110 and the horizontal level of the central area 102. It can be seen that distance J is greater than distance K and therefore, the height of the perimeter rim 104 is greater than the height of the central area 102. The difference between distance J and distance K may be any difference that is suitable for the particular configuration of the media storage disk box. In one embodiment, where such a media storage disk box is configured to contain a conventional optical disk commonly used for storing CD, VCD, and DVD formats, the dimensions of the sheet metal cover 100 are approximately 135.7 millimeters by approximately 191.0 millimeters by 6.35 millimeters. In this configuration, the height of the perimeter wall 112 is approximately 6.35 millimeters and the height of the central area 102 is approximately 5.95 millimeters, and the difference between these heights, or the difference between distances J and K, is approximately 0.40 millimeters. In another embodiment, the difference between distances J and K may be approximately one (1.0) millimeter or 0.5 millimeters. In yet another embodiment, the difference between distances J and K is within a range from approximately 0.10 millimeter and 1.50 millimeters, or within a range from approximately 0.30 and 0.90 millimeters, inclusive of the end-values of these ranges. However, these dimensions and heights and height differences are only examples of particular embodiments of the present invention. Any other desired heights and dimensions may also be used to accommodate the particular needs and requirements of a particular application. For example, it may be desired to have the perimeter rim 104 be a certain height to accommodate the height of the particular embossing that may be used in the central area 102, since a certain height may be required to keep the embossed surface from being scratched or otherwise damaged when a plurality of media storage disk boxes are stacked or packed together in a way that the top surfaces of the sheet metal panel contact each other. In another embodiment, the lesser height may suffice for embodiments where, for example, there is no embossing located at the central area 102.

The included references to “height” and “horizontal level” are made relative the side sectional views shown in FIGS. 28A, 28B, and FIG. 29.

Referring specifically to FIG. 28B, the perimeter ledge 106 and perimeter surface 108 of the perimeter rim 104 are identified. The perimeter ledge 106, the perimeter surface 108, the lower edge 110, and the perimeter wall 112 are similarly visible in FIG. 28A and FIG. 29 however, so that other features described with reference to FIG. 28A may be seen more clearly, these features are labeled only in FIG. 28B, the enlarged view of region L identified in FIG. 28A.

FIG. 29 is a side sectional view of the sheet metal cover shown in FIG. 27 taken along line F. The features shown in FIG. 29 are substantially identical to those shown in FIG. 28A, except that, in the illustrated embodiment, due to the rectangular shape of the illustrated media storage disk box, the length of the side shown in FIG. 29 is shorter than the length of the side shown in FIG. 28. However, the above description with reference to FIGS. 28A and 28B is similarly applicable to FIG. 29.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the above-described media storage disk box may be implemented in a variety of designs and configurations. For example, while certain materials have been specified for the construction of the media storage disk box, other suitable materials may also be used. Also, while certain sizes and shapes of the media disk storage box are shown in the illustrated embodiments, variations in size and shape may be made.

The previous description of the exemplary embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present invention. While the invention has been described with respect to particular illustrated embodiments, various modifications to these embodiments will readily be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. It is therefore desired that the present embodiments be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments described above but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein. 

1. A media storage disk box comprising: a unitary plastic body having a first panel, a second panel, and a hinge panel, the hinge panel intermediate of the first panel and the second panel, the first panel and the second panel movable, about the hinge panel, between an open position and a closed position; a first metal cover affixed to the first panel, the first metal cover having a perimeter rim and at least one perimeter wall section; and a second metal cover affixed to the second panel, the second metal cover having a perimeter rim and at least one perimeter wall section.
 2. The media storage disk box of claim 1, further including a third metal cover affixed to the hinge panel.
 3. The media storage disk box of claim 1, wherein the perimeter rim of the first metal cover and the perimeter rim of the second metal cover each include a perimeter surface, wherein each of the perimeter surfaces are similar in size and shape, and each of the perimeter surfaces include a substantially flat portion.
 4. The media storage disk box of claim 1, wherein the perimeter rim of the first metal cover is raised a predetermined distance above a central area of the first metal cover, and wherein the perimeter rim of the second metal cover is raised a predetermined distance above a central area of the second metal cover.
 5. The media storage disk box of claim 4, wherein the predetermined distance is approximately 0.40 millimeter.
 6. The media storage disk box of claim 4, wherein the predetermined distance is within a range from approximately 0.30 millimeter to 0.90 millimeter.
 7. The media storage disk box of claim 1, wherein the perimeter rim of the first metal cover and the perimeter rim of the second metal cover each include a perimeter surface and a perimeter ledge, and wherein each of the perimeter rims adds support to the structure of the respective first and second metal covers.
 8. The media storage disk box of claim 1, further including graphics disposed on at least one of the first and second metal covers.
 9. The media storage disk box of claim 8, wherein the graphics include embossed graphics.
 10. The media storage disk box of claim 8, wherein the graphics include printed graphics.
 11. The media storage disk box of claim 8, wherein the graphics include a combination of embossed graphics and printed graphics.
 12. The media storage disk box of claim 8, wherein the graphics included a combination of text images and graphic images.
 13. The media storage disk box of claim 1, wherein a first hinge defining a first axis of rotation is formed intermediate of the first panel and the hinge panel, and a second hinge defining a second axis of rotation is formed intermediate of the second panel and the hinge panel, the first axis of rotation being parallel to the second axis of rotation, wherein the first hinge and the second hinge allow movement of the first panel and the second panel relative to the hinge panel.
 14. The media storage disk box of claim 1, wherein in the open position access is provided to an interior side of the first panel and an interior side of the second panel, the interior side of the second panel having a mounting region, and in the closed position the first panel and the second panel form an enclosure for containing one or more disks.
 15. The media storage disk box of claim 1, wherein the shape and size of the first panel is complementary to the shape and size of the second panel, and in the closed condition, a perimeter of the first panel is located proximate to a perimeter of the second panel.
 16. The media storage disk box of claim 1, wherein the first panel includes at least one side wall, and wherein the first metal cover is substantially the same size as the first panel and the first metal cover overlays the first panel, the at least one perimeter wall section of the first metal cover substantially surrounding the at least one side wall of the first panel.
 17. The media storage disk box of claim 16, wherein the second panel includes at least one side wall, and wherein the second metal cover is substantially the same size as the second panel and the second metal cover overlays the second panel, the at least one perimeter wall section of the second metal cover substantially surrounding the at least one side wall of the second panel.
 18. A media storage disk box comprising: a unitary plastic body having a first panel, a second panel, and a hinge panel, the hinge panel intermediate of the first panel and the second panel, the first panel and the second panel movable, about the hinge panel, between an open position and a closed position; a first metal cover affixed to the first panel, the first metal cover having a perimeter rim around a top surface of the first metal cover, the perimeter rim of the first metal cover raised a predetermined distance above a central area of the first metal cover; a second metal cover affixed to the second panel, the second metal cover having a perimeter rim around a top surface of the second metal cover, the perimeter rim of the second metal cover raised a predetermined distance above a central area of the second metal cover; and graphics disposed on at least part of the central area of at least one of the first and second metal covers.
 19. The media storage disk box of claim 18, wherein the perimeter rim of the first metal cover and the perimeter rim of the second metal cover each include a perimeter surface, wherein each of the perimeter surfaces are similar in size and shape, and each of the perimeter surfaces include a substantially flat portion.
 20. The media storage disk box of claim 18, wherein the predetermined distance is approximately 0.40 millimeter.
 21. The media storage disk box of claim 18, wherein the predetermined distance is within a range from approximately 0.30 millimeter to 0.90 millimeter.
 22. The media storage disk box of claim 18, further including graphics disposed on at least one of the first and second metal covers.
 23. The media storage disk box of claim 18, wherein the graphics include a combination of embossed graphics and printed graphics.
 24. The media storage disk box of claim 18, wherein the shape and size of the first panel is complementary to the shape and size of the second panel, and in the closed condition, a perimeter of the first panel is located proximate to a perimeter of the second panel.
 25. The media storage disk box of claim 18, wherein the first panel includes at least one side wall, and wherein the first metal cover is substantially the same size as the first panel and the first metal cover overlays the first panel, the at least one perimeter wall section of the first metal cover substantially surrounding the at least one side wall of the first panel.
 26. The media storage disk box of claim 25, wherein the second panel includes at least one side wall, and wherein the second metal cover is substantially the same size as the second panel and the second metal cover overlays the second panel, the at least one perimeter wall section of the second metal cover substantially surrounding the at least one side wall of the second panel.
 27. The media storage disk box of claim 18, wherein the first metal cover further includes at least one perimeter wall section, and the first panel includes at least one side wall, the at least one perimeter wall section of the first metal cover surrounding at least a substantial part of the at least one side wall of the first panel, and wherein the second metal cover further includes at least one perimeter wall section, and the second panel includes at least one side wall, the at least one perimeter wall section of the second metal cover surrounding at least a substantial part of the at least one side wall of the second panel.
 28. A media storage disk box comprising: a unitary plastic body having a first panel, a second panel, and a hinge panel, the hinge panel intermediate of the first panel and the second panel, the first panel and the second panel movable, about the hinge panel, between an open position and a closed position, each of the first and second panels including at least one side wall; a first metal cover affixed to the first panel, the first metal cover having a perimeter rim and at least one perimeter wall section, the perimeter rim of the first metal cover raised a predetermined distance above a central area of the first metal cover, and the at least one perimeter wall section of the first metal cover surrounding at least a substantial part of the at least one side wall of the first panel; a second metal cover affixed to the second panel, the second metal cover having a perimeter rim and at least one perimeter wall section, the perimeter rim of the second metal cover raised a predetermined distance above a central area of the second metal cover, the at least one perimeter wall section of the second metal cover surrounding at least a substantial part of the at least one side wall of the second panel; a third metal cover affixed to the hinge panel; and graphics disposed on at least one of the first, second, and third metal covers. 